FAQs What is a University Technical College? UTCs are a new concept in education. They offer 14 to 18 year olds the opportunity to take a highly regarded, technically-orientated course of study alongside academic qualifications. What are the advantages of a student going to a UTC instead of staying at their previous school? Students benefit from regular input and mentoring by local employers and universities and can study subjects they are enthused by, in a top quality facility that reflects the real work place with teachers who have practical industry experience. What is the reason for starting at age 14? 11 is too early to choose a subject path to follow and by the time students are 16, if they know what they want to do, they often become bored at school and so underachieve. What makes the UTC different? Employers as well as the University shape the curriculum, connecting everything the students learn to the world of work, including the UTC’s working day which will start at 8.30am and finish at 5.15pm. Who are the sponsors of Crewe Engineering & Design UTC? The UTC is proud to partner with Manchester Metropolitan University and a range of local and national employers including Bentley, OSL Rail, Jacobs Engineering, Siemens, Chevron Racing, and Optical 3D. Why specialise in Engineering and Design? Our employer partners have shown a wealth of opportunities for engineering and design in the Crewe area, and therefore the need for this UTC. There is also a nationally recognised need for skills and career opportunities in a raft of specialisms offering fantastic routes for all young people. Will students have to wear a uniform? Student dress will have a uniform element and reflect business dress. Will there be homework as well as a longer school day? There will be time within the day to undertake the personal study required by GCSEs, A-Levels and other qualifications. Students can access their learning online outside these hours should they want to finish off a piece of work or do more independent study. If you already have support at school would you continue to get this at the UTC? The UTC will have staff with expertise in special needs and the building will be designed to be accessible to all with additional facilities for those who need them. Will free school meals continue to be available? All pupils eligible for free school meals will retain their entitlement. What if I want to go to University? The UTC will offer A-Levels as well as other qualifications that will provide sufficient UCAS points for students wishing to move on to University. Will attending the UTC lead to a job? With its specialist learning and the key partnerships with local employers in the UTC at every level, we are confident that students will leave the UTC able to compete for jobs and for entry to higher education. Will the UTC select students according to ability? Year 10 entry will result in students being admitted on the basis of selection. In the event that there are more applications than places, there will be an independently verified process of random allocation in order to ensure fairness. Some courses at Year 12 intake may involve minimum entry requirements based on the course selection level. Are specific grades required for entry? There are no entry requirements at Year 10. Year 12 entry requirements will relate to the course of study applied for. For any Level 3 courses at Year 12 students will be expected to have a Grade C or better in Maths and English GCSE, a Grade C or better in Dual Award science or in two of Physics, Chemistry or Biology. Students will also be assessed through interview for an aptitude for practical learning, problem solving and collaborative working as well as an interest in engineering and design. How can I apply to the UTC? The UTC will be able to take formal applications from May 2015 and a full application process will be available on our website. However, in the meantime you can send your full contact details to [email protected] to register your interest. Can anyone apply; do you have to be brilliant at English or Maths? The UTC is open to anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in engineering, manufacturing or design. Brilliance is not required, but the specialist facilities, the ethos and the extra learning will help you achieve the best of your abilities. Will the UTC have parent governors? There will be a minimum of two parent governors on the Board of Governors. Will there be any additional costs for parents? The UTC is state-funded and will provide state of the art equipment for learning within school. Specialist kit may be provided by employers either based in the UTC or provided through site visits to their organisation. Students will not be required to provide their own specialist equipment. When do we inform the current school that the child is leaving? Once you have formally applied to the UTC and your application has been formally accepted, you may inform your current school. We can provide you with a model letter. Get In Touch! www.utccrewe.co.uk Lesley Millard on 07921 645 756 [email protected] CreweUTC